Checks and splays

Stonemasonry Department 2012

Checks and SplaysIntroduction for Stonemasons

Cutting a CheckMark check lines on joint of stone and scribe lines across the face and top bed to join the

check.  

 Set in both joints using a half inch chisel.

Ensure that the check is square before

progressing to the next step.

Using a teeth tool, cut a V about 5mm-10mm from the cutting line. Try

to get the V as deep as possible without going below the cutting line. On larger checks you may have to do

this in stages.  

Pitch along the face side of the check. The pitch should join to the bottom of the V you cut in the last step.

Set in marginal drafts to form the

arrises of the check. .   

 Cut the rest of the check using the mel-point, teeth tool and

chisel. Ensure that the check is running straight across the joints and square from the top bed and

face. 

.   

Cutting a SplayMark splay lines on

the joints and scribe lines across the face and top bed to join the

splays. 

Make the lines safe using a half inch chisel. Always work away from the line and toward the

centre of the splay. 

Pitch the joints to the working lines. You may

wish to support your stone at an angle so that your

splay is sitting level. 

Using marginal drafts, set in the joints, top and bottom of the

splay. 

Rough out the centre section

using mel-point and teeth tool.

Chisel centre section to flat. Check for flat across

the length, width and diagonals of the splay.

If splay is to be seen, polish to fine

finish.